Bradford’s School of Chemistry and Biosciences praised for gender equality

Published: Fri 11 May 2018

The School of Chemistry and Biosciences at the University of Bradford has been awarded an Athena SWAN award for its work in gender equality.

The bronze award recognizes the sustained efforts of colleagues to promote progress and overcome barriers to inclusivity for both colleagues and students. The award celebrates the dedication of the School and its Athena SWAN team to grow as ambassadors for gender equality in the university and higher education sector.

Professor Stephen Rimmer, Head of School of Chemistry and Biosciences, said: “We are delighted to be recognised in this way and I would like to congratulate all of the team for a very significant success. Promoting equality is at the very heart of our work as scientists and it is vital that success in scientific careers is based only our scientific achievements.

“Our work is only just beginning in this respect and there is a lot to be done as we progress to Silver status and beyond but the challenges here are something that our team is looking forward to addressing.”

Professor Udy Archibong MBE, Director of Centre for Inclusion and Diversity, said: “Our continued success under the Charter, shown by this latest award, is a welcome reminder of how important gender equality is to people across our University.”

About Athena SWAN

The Athena SWAN Charter celebrates success in advancing gender equality in higher education and research. It rigorously examines the steps taken by universities and their departments to improve representation, encourage progress and combat gender-based discrimination.

From May 2015 the Charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law as well as professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students.

The Charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.